Slide Assembly Latch Release with Low-Force Secure Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch and release devices for slide assemblies require significant force to operate and rely on a firm connection to maintain a secure locked status, which can be unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A latch and release device with a resilient arm and engaging portions on a second rail, connected to an operation member that pivots to engage and disengage with a bracket, allowing for easy operation with less force and secure locking, featuring an inclined and vertical surface for enhanced engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a resilient catch with firm connection is used to ensure secure locking, then reliability is improved, but significant force is required to operate it
Solution Approach 1:
The operation member transitions from a static firm connection to a dynamic pivoting connection. The pivotal connection allows the operation member to rotate and leverage the resilient arm's elasticity, converting a static force requirement into a dynamic mechanical advantage system that reduces operating force while maintaining locking reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient arm serves as an intermediary between the operation member and the engaging portion. It mediates the force transmission by deformably connecting the operation member's pivotal movement to the engaging portion's locking action, allowing force reduction while ensuring reliable engagement
2Reliability
If a firm connection relationship is used between locked parts, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the operation member and the engaging portion changes from a static firm connection to a dynamic pivoting connection. This allows the user to easily pivot the operation member while the resilient arm ensures reliable locking, simultaneously improving ease of operation and maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connection type parameter changes from rigid/firm to pivotal/rotational. This parameter change allows the system to achieve easy operation through simple pivoting motion while the resilient arm's elastic properties maintain the reliability of the locked status
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device allows for easy operation with reduced force and ensures a reliable, secure locked status, as the resilient arm and engaging portions effectively engage and disengage with the bracket, enhancing the stability and usability of the slide assembly.
Implementation Method 1
an engaging member fixed to the second rail and having a resilient arm and at least one engaging portion connected to the resilient arm
Data Source
AI summary
A latch and release device for a slide assembly includes first and second rails slidably movable relative to each other. An engaging member includes a resilient arm and an engaging portion is connected to the resilient arm and faces the first rail. The engaging portion can be engaged with a latch which is fixed to the second rail to restrict the second rail to move relative to the first rail. An operation member includes a first end, a second end and a body which is pivotably connected to the second rail and the first end of the operation member contacts the resilient arm. When the second end of the operation member is shifted, the resilient arm is moved by the first end of the operation member to disengage from the latch.